It's no secret that I adore this time of year. Having resumed my studies in the Country House, I've had the space to map out new historical content for readers and hope that in the meantime, you enjoy reading about the activities I've been indulging in this season. Having recently moved into our new house, … Continue reading She Noted: Preparing for Christmas
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of West Wycombe as an architectural study is the fact that the classical theme of its exterior is greatly extended by the design of its lavish interiors. What becomes apparent from this activity is that, constructing a country house in the 18th century was a complex operation – determined not … Continue reading West Wycombe Park – The Interiors
Here's something that I haven't spoken on before - my talks. Granted, I never thought I could be a speaker until I actually did it. I was kindly asked by a local WI group to have a chat around what was, at the time, my dissertation topic: The Dollhouse in 17th century Amsterdam and the … Continue reading She Noted – My WI Talks
Running a household in Victorian England had become a science – with tasks to be delegated and a system of categorised activity for those at every level of society. When Girouard writes of the eminent concern for ‘morality, domesticity, organisation and hospitality’[1] in the country house the emphasis is on the rigid upholding of standards … Continue reading The Victorian Country House: Morality, Domesticity & Organisation
